Search by Name

Add a Memory

Send Flowers

Make a Donation

Share Obituary

1936 - 2010

BORN

1936

DIED

2010

Pete Van Dam Obituary

Pete Van Dam September 12, 1936 - October 6, 2010 Pete Van Dam is survived by his wife, Janet; children, Tamara, Julie, Dennis, Keith, Catherine, and Michael; granddaughters, Danielle, Gabrielle, and Tess. Son, Chris, predeceased him. The memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 16, at 9:30 a.m., at the Church of the Living Savior, 149 5th St., in McFarland, CA 93250. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Youth Group at the church. If you knew Papa Pete, you would probably picture him with smiling eyes, a generous heart, and a big wide grin. You would feel a bear of a hug, his faithfulness to God, and all his love. You would know that you were special, the joy of his life, and that he always had time for you. When you sought his counsel, you would hear insightful and compassionate words guided from the scripture. When you think of him now, remember his joy of doing for others and for the Lord. Give someone a hug.....Give a dog a treat.....Give the gift of your time....SMILE...For Pete's Sake! www.bakersfield.com/obits

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Bakersfield Californian on Oct. 12, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Pete Van Dam

14 Entries

Tim

February 13, 2024

I remember Pete as a big man with a big heart . I lived down the street from Pete´s dairy in El Monte . Us kids would hang around the dairy nearly everyday after school and most of the summer. Pete would buy us kids ice cream and sodas . He was just a good guy . Very thoughtful man . I was sad when Pete moved his dairy to McFarland . I remember waking up one morning and seeing the dairy empty . The cows were all gone. I remember Pete had them shipped at night . I never got a chance to thank Pete and say goodbye but through out the years I have often thought about those days at Pete´s dairy . I am nearing 70 years old and will never forget this man for his kindness Rest in Peace my friend

Janet Woods-Dye

October 19, 2010

Jan and family. I grew up with the Van Dam family always there rather it was School or Church I could always plan on seeing them at least once a week. There was fun times with campus life and serious time with Church groups. Pete was always there whenever you needed a laugh to brighten your day or a hug to comfort you. Love and Prayers to the Van Dams Love Janet (Woods) Dye

Debbi and Larry Kelley

October 19, 2010

Sweet Uncle Pete was such a blessing to all of us. Now that we are home from his Memorial Service, I realize that even more! There were so many people there to honor him and to support you, his family, as you go through this tough time. I know you will keep his spirit and memory alive in all you do. He was an amazing Man of God and an inspiration to all of us. We will continue to pray for you all as you go through this. We love you all and ask God's peace to be with you always.
Love you, Debbi and Larry Kelley

Dave Reviea

October 19, 2010

AS I sit here, I think of all the memories made with Pete, or Pete and the Kids. I've known Pete for close to 40 yrs. and could not see him for 1-2 years, and take up like we had just seen one another at the coffee shop yesterday. The greatness of a Man is partially shown by the Legacy he leaves behind, and Pete has a Pretty awesome trail following him. Not only did he raise some really great kids, he helped raise many more thru 4-H, FFA, and the Church.
My earliest memories of Pete were at the Dairy, and we had some interesting days there. Then he farmed across the road from my Dad, and kept him company on many summer days.
Thank you for everything you did for us, and for McFarland.
Pete....you are a fine man....I will see you soon.

Kathy, Tim & Tyler Vignolo

October 18, 2010

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

Dustin and Janey de Graaf

October 12, 2010

Uncle Pete,
Thank you for all the great memories. We had a lot of fun together. Your smile and enthusiasm was always contagious. You always reminded me of Grandpa Henry, He was a great man, and you obviously followed closely in his footsteps. You will be dearly missed. To and Jan and all the Cousins, We are so sorry for your loss, but We know because of God's promise, we will see Him again in Heaven.

Nikki Austin

October 12, 2010

Papa Pete you were such an amazing person! You will be missed so much! You are Now in the best place you could ever possibly be and are watching over us. I'll never forget all the good memories we had in good ole McFarland out in the orchids! Your the best and my prayers are out to the family!

Yvette Marks

October 12, 2010

My Dearest Uncle Pete!!! Wow, you finally made it to the ultimate place above. To the place that he always seemed to live for is now a reality. He may not be here on earth with us, but I know Pete's heart and soul will live forever. Thank you Lord. It's true, what a wonderful and beautiful man to have known. I feel truly blessed to have been around my Aunt Janet and Uncle Pete's glorious spirit as a child. But I know I will see him again in heaven one day, Hallelujah!! I'll have to thank my Aunt Janet for bring him closer to my family. Otherwise, without them getting married and being a part of their lives throughout my childhood, I may have missed this unforgettable chance to meet such a fantastic role model for the whole community. What an awesome man, Pete Van Dam. I Love you Uncle Pete! My deepest sympathy to his family and friends, he will never be forgotten.

October 12, 2010

Janet and family, what a great man of God, surely his words will be "Will done good and faithful servant". Our hearts go out to you and your family. What comfort knowing that he is with Jesus. Love you, Lloyd and Kathy Gentry

Gary & Donna de Graaf

October 12, 2010

When Uncle Pete passed away, he was at the bible study he'd attended regularly for the past 25+ years, surrounded by the men who knew him best. He was a very special man, if you knew him you loved him! He went from a passage in God's word into the presence of God's glory! We can't think of a more fitting tribute for a a man who not only studied God's word, but lived it out daily. He was generous with all who knew him. He left a little of himself in all of us and we are better because of knowing him. Thank you Uncle Pete, we will miss you...Until we meet again.

Joanne Mees Muscutt

October 12, 2010

My sympathies to all of you. I remember Mr. Van Dam from my childhood as a very nice, caring man. And I remember my parents held him in high regard. He was great! Thank you, Lord, for sharing him with us.

Sally Warren

October 12, 2010

Papa Pete ! You are one incredible man and will be missed by ALL! One of my favorite memories is Pete bringing his home made goodies to his son Keith, who was kind enough to share. You could taste the most important ingredient...love. Pete's smile brightened the world. His compassion could be seen in his everyday actions towards his family, his pets and even strangers.Our world will be not quite so bright without this man. Pete, you are loved! Miss you bunches, Peace be with you.

Jeanne Riley Miller

October 12, 2010

If the world was made up of Pete Van Dams.. Instead of cayos it would a beautiful place. Good bye to a lovely man...See you in heaven Pete!

Laura Van Dam

October 12, 2010

Uncle Pete was the type of person you could talk to without feeling as if you were being judged. He always made me feel comfortable and special. He was such a great family man in addition to his dedication for our Lord. I love you Uncle Pete!

Showing 1 - 14 of 14 results